State Trustees Australia Foundation celebrates 30 years of impactful giving

The State Trustees Australia Foundation (STAF) is celebrating a remarkable milestone—30 years of empowering vulnerable Victorians through impactful philanthropy. Since 1994, the Foundation has distributed more than $45.5 million in grants, supporting 553 life-changing projects that tackle systemic challenges across a wide range of causes.

For three decades, the Foundation has partnered with charities and community organisations that align with State Trustees vision of driving positive social change. The key focus areas include:

• Improving the quality of life for older Victorians.
• Fostering community inclusion for people with disabilities.
• Helping disadvantaged children overcome barriers and thrive.
• Addressing mental health issues across Victoria’s communities.

The grants awarded ensure critical programs that address societal challenges and enhance the quality of life for some of Victoria’s most vulnerable populations are given the support they need to make a difference.

Recent Highlights: In the past year, STAF has proudly supported a number of initiatives that exemplify its mission:

• Live4Life, an award-winning youth mental health and suicide prevention initiative that addresses critical mental health challenges in rural and regional areas.
• Banksia Gardens Association, with the Northern Centre for Excellence in School Engagement (NCESE), is tackling student disengagement.
• All Things Equal, a social enterprise dedicated to training, mentoring, and employing people with disabilities at full award rates.

Empowering Communities for the Future

Reflecting on this significant anniversary, Melissa Reynolds, Chief Executive Officer of State Trustees, said:

“For 30 years, the State Trustees Australia Foundation has been privileged to support the work of local organisations dedicated to creating positive change across Victoria. This would not be possible without the generosity of Victorians who have entrusted us with their bequests, allowing us to extend their legacy of giving. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the meaningful work being done by these organisations, and we remain committed to supporting their efforts to uplift vulnerable communities and make a lasting difference.”

The work of the State Trustees Australia Foundation is made possible by the generosity of Victorians who have entrusted the Foundation to manage their charitable bequests. This model ensures that vital causes continue to receive support in perpetuity, providing long-lasting benefits for future generations.

About the State Trustees Australia Foundation

Established in 1994 as a public charitable trust, the State Trustees Australia Foundation has been a cornerstone of community giving for 30 years. The Foundation has distributed over $45.5 million to support life-changing projects in areas such as mental health, disability inclusion, ageing well, and community engagement across Victoria.